How Long Do Implant Retained Dentures Last?
Tooth loss happens to millions of Americans each year. Thankfully, there are many good tooth replacement options available. If your dentist has recently suggested you consider tooth replacement options, you should look into implant retained dentures, or “snap on dentures”. Unlike regular dentures that sit on top of the gumline, implant retained dentures are designed to securely attach to dental implants placed in the jawbone. This means stability and security not offered by conventional dentures. Below is more information to help you decide if implant retained dentures are right for you.
What Are Implant Retained Dentures?
Conventional dentures are an artificial prosthetic designed to help individuals missing all or most of their teeth. Dentures are popular due to their ability to affordably replace multiple teeth at once. Unfortunately, conventional dentures are not low maintenance. Overtime, without teeth, the shape of the gums and mouth change, and the dentures will no longer fit securely. Typically, patients to need to have their dentures refitted time and time again. This is one major difference between implant retained dentures and conventional dentures. The dentures attach to implants, or titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants act like the roots of natural teeth, providing a place for the denture to be attached and taking up space in the mouth. Commonly, implant retained dentures require a minimum of 4 implants on the uppers and 2 implants on the lowers to support the dentures.
How Long do Implant Retained Dentures Last?
Teeth play an important role in chewing, helping with speech, as well as providing structure and shape to the jaw and mouth. When teeth are lost, the shape of the jaw changes. When all of the natural teeth have been lost the jaw shrinks over time, or resorption occurs. Due to this process of resorption, conventional dentures need to be replaced and refitted every few years. This makes the cost of dentures a less affordable option over time if you consider the maintenance and upkeep. Installing metal posts in the jaw to support the dentures helps repair the strength of the jaw and sparks bone growth. Implant retained dentures halt the resorption process and improve the overall health of the mouth and jaw. Therefore, implant retained dentures do not need to be replaced or refitted as the mouth isn’t changing. In general, implants should last for at least 15 years and the dentures will last approximately 7 years before they start to wear.
Benefits of Implant Retained Denture
Besides stopping the resorption process and maintaining the shape and structure of the mouth, there are many other benefits of implant retained dentures, including:
- A secure fit without rubbing or sliding, improving everyday life
- Improved oral health, including restoring the health of the jawbone
- Improved appearance: With less artificial material on the dentures needed to secure fit, retained dentures have a more natural appearance
- Improved comfort: With their secure attachment, retained dentures are more comfortable than traditional dentures